| Background and site description |
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The site is a limestone quarry covering a total area of 61 hectares close to Asham Wood SSSI (see case example no.9). It was acquired as an active quarry by Foster Yeoman in the 1950s.
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| Initiative |
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Landscaping and habit creation was undertaken over the entire site. Using a consultant, surveys and site audits were carried out prior to habitat creation initiatives. Habitats created include calcareous grassland and woodland. Species of interest include a colony of Grizzled Skipper butterflies which is monitored by the Somerset Wildlife Trust. In developing the site, particular attention was paid to the LBAP and a strong working relationship built with English Nature. Wherever possible, the company used plant material of local provenance. It also established its own tree nursery for woodland planting.
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| Costs |
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- Approx. £50,000 for woodland planting, fencing, etc.
- Unquantified costs include more expensive profiling work on quarry faces to enhance biodiversity interest.
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| Benefits |
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- The value of good local partnership could make a difference in obtaining permission to expand at other sites.
- Promoting the message that within the Mendips the quarrying industry is a valuable tool in increasing biodiversity.
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| Contribution to biodiversity |
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- Calcareous Grassland is a priority habitat under the UK BAP.
- This site demonstrates the development of good local partnerships and here particular attention has been paid to the LBAP. The company’s interest in local provenance plant material is also relevant, since the mineral industry could have a role in promoting and supporting the supply of such material, making local nurseries commercially viable.
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| Contact |
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Mendip District Council
The Biodiversity Officer
Mendip District Council
Cannards Grave Road
Shepton Mallet
Somerset BA4 5BT
customerservices@mendip.gov.uk
01749 648999
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